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Academic Training (AT)
International Student Services at Lehman College

Academic Training (AT) - For J-1 Students

Before you apply for your Form I-20 If you are under the sponsorship of any other J-1 Exchange Visitor program (ie., IIE, AMIDEAST, etc.), you need to contact your sponsoring agency.

Before you apply for your Form I-20 Non-degree students cannot exceed 24 months in J-1 Non-Degree status (including time spent in Academic Training) and their internship cannot exceed the period of time they spent as a student.

Before you apply for your Form I-20 Applications for Academic Training after the completion of studies can be submitted up to 30 days before your completion of studies. They must be filed BEFORE your DS-2019 expires!



What is Academic Training?
Academic Training is work, training or experience related to a J-1 Student’s major field of study.
The work, training or experience may be paid or unpaid.

To be eligible for Academic Training, you must document that you:

1. are currently in valid J-1 student status (have an unexpired DS-2019)
2. are in good academic standing at Lehman College
3. have been offered a job or experience that is directly related to your major field of study and confirmed by your academic adviser

How long can I work in Academic Traning (AT)

1. Bachelors/Masters 18 months or the length of your program, whichever is shorter
Note: Non-degree students cannot exceed 24 months in J-1 Non-Degree status (including time spent in Academic Training) and their internship cannot exceed the period of time they spent as a student.

When can I participate in Academic Training?

1. during the semester
2. during winter break or summer vacation
3. after the completion of all required course work for the degree, while working on one’s thesis, dissertation or equivalent
4. after the completion of one’s degree program (Note: The Academic Training must start no later than 30 days after the completion of your course of study.)

How is part-time Academic Training counted?
Part-time Academic Training is counted the same as full-time Academic Training.

When should I apply for Academic Training?
There is no specified time period during which applications for Academic Training prior to the completion of studies must be submitted. Applications for Academic Training after the completion of studies can be submitted up to 30 days before your completion of studies. They must be filed BEFORE your DS-2019 expires.

For addional information, questions about Academic Training and how to apply, please contact the International Student & Scholar Office.